Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for her reply. I was a little alarmed at first as she concentrated on reminding and updating. I welcome the fact it is intended to have subject inspections. However, if a subject is not being taught in a school, how can an inspection be carried out?

I am sure the Minister shares my main concern, which is the recent survey carried out by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency. This survey showed 11% of secondary schools are not teaching RSE to first and second year students. The percentage rises to 20% in third year, with a third of all schools not teaching the subject in the senior cycle. When interviewed on this matter, the Minister referred to the pressure on the curriculum etc. I share her concerns in this regard but does she agree this is an extremely important subject and we must ensure it is provided to all children?

The Government appears to be a little confused on this issue. Both Government parties publicly stated they want the age of consent lowered to 16 yet we are not ensuring necessary sex education is provided to young people in schools to furnish them with proper knowledge on this subject.

Is the Minister aware that in 2005 a total of 42 teenagers aged under 15 gave birth to children? I do not suggest this problem can be solved just by the provision of better sex education in schools but it will go some way towards addressing it.

How many subject inspections will be carried out in 2007? What type of information and training will be provided to parents? Will this be carried out within schools and if so, who will provide the service?

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